Inspired by a vacation to the Austrian Alps, Elinor M. Brent-Dyer wrote The School at the Chalet, launching a series that would span more than 60 books. The series follows the adventures of a boarding school set in the picturesque Swiss Alps. The series begins with The School at the Chalet (1925), where readers are introduced to Miss Madge Bettany, a young woman who decides to start a school for girls in the Swiss mountains. The series then chronicles the growth and evolution of the school, as well as the trials and triumphs of its students.

The Chalet School now boasts over 30 pupils. The autumn term sees adventures of all kinds - a flood that threatens the school and the dramatic rescue of an unwanted St Bernard puppy. Finally Joey, Robin and Madge spend a delightful Christmas at Innsbruck.

"From its small beginnings, the Chalet School grows to be one of the most famous girl's schools in the world. There's no end of excitement and adventure, and its every girl's dream to be a pupil there. "I'll wind the rope round this stump', said Joey. 'You go down first and I'll follow.' The princess clambered down and called, 'It's all right, Joey! Come down!" Jo proceeded to knot the improvised rope round the rock, then taking a deep breath, let herself down. It was a risky undertaking, for the rope was wearing thin, but there was nothing else for it. she had got halfway when it suddenly gave, and she fell ..."--Back cover.

When they arrive at The Chalet School, the Lintons are as different as two sisters can be. Gentle and thoughtful Gillian soon settles down and makes friends, but wilful Joyce refuses to obey school rules or respect classroom honour. Problems come to a head when Joyce organizes a midnight feast.